After extensive production trials, the prototype hydraulic side lock toolholder exhibited at MACH 2012 exhibition is now being marketed as the Gewefa Securlok, reports Gewefa UK.
The Securlok hydraulic chuck design toolholder is provided with an additional mechanical side clamping mechanism. This claims Gewefa ensures 100% tool shank and process security, while concentricity – within 0.003 mm TIR maximum – provides uniform chip load on each cutting edge. Both locking operations require a single T wrench.
The toolholder is suitable for general and heavy duty milling operations in titanium, composites and the ISO S rated materials often used in airframe manufacture and where there are substantial radial and axial forces on the cutting tool. Ordinarily, under such conditions, there is a risk of the cutter slipping or pulling out.
With its slim nose design the Securlok is particularly attractive for aero frame machining applications where high levels of surface finish and high removal rates are called for. In these environments the toolholder's anti-vibration characteristics are particularly valuable. Heavy radial or axial loads when milling can cause a slip or vibration (causing tool 'chatter') which will affect surface finish quality and insert life.
The Securlok's totally enclosed clamping unit prevents swarf or coolant entering the hydraulic chuck mechanism where it could cause internal damage and put the toolholder out of action.
The toolholder is suitable for use with standard cutters machined with a Weldon flat (DIN 1835 Form B) or a Whistle Notch (DIN 1835 Form E) connection and does not require special grooves to be machined into the cutter shank. Gewefa UK managing director Keith Warner underlines: "This leaves the cutter brand and format entirely to the customer's discretion, extending the use of the toolholder to the widest number of applications."
As phase one of its introduction, Gewefa is offering the toolholders in HSK, DIN 69871 and BT formats.